As far from the dry chronicling of distant, long forgotten events as any well traveled voyager could hope to encounter, the history of the Kingdom offers a panorama of unforgettable experiences. A living Buzz permeates every quarter of this spectacular terrain where the mighty Zulu nation was forged.
Preserved for future generations within our youngest World Heritage Site, vivid rock paintings highlight the Berg mountain fastness of our western boundary, bringing to life the fascinating inner and outer worlds of the truly ancient San people who first enjoyed the bounties of this subtropical paradise. The endless golden beach on the eastern shoreline offers shipwrecks and million year old fossil beds to explore, plus the opportunity to retrace the footprints of marooned mariners who sought refuge here.
To the north lie memory filled and intensely atmospheric Battlefields. Linking the quarters is the inimitable Bush, where history was made in wildlife conservation on the African continent, leading to their unsurpassable collection of game - parks and reserves - and where the proud Zulu people rose in unity following migration of clans from the Great Lakes. Relive the campaigns of Africa's Black Napoleon, King Shaka, and trace the lineage of monarchs from Colonial subjugation through the Apartheid years to present-day democracy.
Cape Town has maintained a reputation for friendly hospitality. With its majestic Table Mountain backdrop, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. An eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the tastes and dictates of the past and the more functional demands of current times.
The city's Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved, and many outstanding examples of Cape Dutch architecture are found in the city and its environs. Cobble stone streets, mosques and the flat roofed pastel homes of the Malay Quarter entrance a cosmopolitan ambience, and in recent development, the restoration of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront evokes images of the seafaring activities of the 19th century.
For a closer look at life in the Cape in earlier times, interesting historical collections are on display in several museums. Cape Town's shopping options invite you to endlessly browse - and buy. Elegant shopping malls, department stores, antique shops and art galleries abound. Specialist boutiques in Long Street and the narrow little alleys intersecting it offer an enticing array of unusual articles not readily obtainable elsewhere. At the end of the day, gourmets and loves of sophisticated entertainment have a treat in store!
Detail Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival at Durneen Airport and transfer to the Drakensberg You will be driven through the beautiful green landscape and farming land to a charming lodge (B&B) at the foot of the mountains Free evening to discover one of the lovely little restaurants of the area and an early night to be ready for the next morning!
Day 2 After an early breakfast you will be picked up in an 4x4 vehicle. A day excursion of the Sani Pass all the way to the Kingdom of Lesotho, 3,000 m above sea level. You will visit a tiny Sotho village on the plateau, where the local will welcome you into their homes. You are free for lunch at one of the highest pubs in Africa! Enjoy stunning views over the valley while relaxing with a drink in front of a roaring fire. Back to your lodge around 4pm Free evening
Day 3 After breakfast, transfer to Hluhluwe/Umfolozi area, home to many game reserves and lodges. Book into lodge - depending on availability
Day 4 Another day in the bush - game drives in open vehicles!
Day 5 After breakfast, transfer to Kwabekhitunga, farming and Zulu cultural area. You will relive a true traditional Zulu experience. You will meet a Zulu family and learn about their way of life, dress and culture. This family will cook a typical Zulu meal for you and serve it with traditional Zulu beer! Accommodations at Stewart's Farm Lodge in typical beehive style Zulu huts. Dinner, bed and breakfast
Day 6 Breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight to Cape Town
Day 7 You will be met at Cape Town Airport by Andre Rutman, one of the most experienced guides in the area. Andre is a SA Navy Reserve Admiral who will be your guide for the next two days. He knows everything about Cape Town and has some entertaining stories! Transfer to The Albatross House in the historic town of Simon's Town, where you will be accommodated for the next two nights. Cruise in the "Spirit of Just Nuisance" into Simons Bay. Tour of the Naval Dockyard. Free evening. Arrangements can be made for a reservation and transport to a restaurant of your choice in town. Inquire at The Albatross as they will happy to assist you.
Day 8 Breakfast A visit to the Penguin Colony at Boulders National Park Tour of the Peninsula National Park Drive along the scenic western coast to see the seaside village of Kommetjie Return to Simon's Town over the mountains and eastern coast Free evening. Arrangements can be made for a reservation and transport to a restaurant of your choice in town. Inquire at The Albatross as they will happy to assist you.
Day 9 After breakfast, transfer to the famous wine lands You will visit the historic towns of Stellenbosch, Pearl and Franschoek, stopping at various wine estates for excellent wine tasting! Lunch at a charming restaurant in Franschoek Transfer to your luxury hotel in Cape Town, Welgelegen, a charming boutique hotel situated in a quiet residential part of town, but still within walking distance of the centre, with lovely views of the sea and mountain. Free evening.
Day 10 Breakfast Cape Town city tour, includes VOC Castle, the House of Parliament, Bo-Kaap and District Six, Victoria and Alfred Waterfront
Day 11 Breakfast Free day in town. We suggest you take a ride up the Table Mountain, where you can walk for hours and not get tired of the magnificent views the mountain offers of the city and surroundings. Or you can take the ferry to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela endured 27 years of incarceration.
Day 12 Breakfast Transfer to Cape Town Airport
Terms and Conditions
Included 2 Nights in the Berg - Bed and Breakfast Sani Pass / Lesotho full day excursion 2 Nights at Hluhluwe/Umfolozi - eg of game reserves: Falaza, Hluhluwe River Lodge, Thanda tented camp Game drives 1 Night at Stewarts Farm in Kwabekhitunga - Dinner, bed and breakfast Zulu Experience and traditional Zulu lunch All transfers 2 Nights at The Albatross House B&B Cruise in Simon's Bay Peninsula Tour Wine lands tour Wine tasting Lunch at Franschoek Transfer to Cape Town 3 Nights at the Welgelegen B&B in luxury accommodations City tour of Cape Town Transfers in/out Cape Town Airport Not Included Flights Meals and drinks not mentioned on the program Lunch in Lesotho Extra activities Gratuities Personal purchases Recommended Do bring along sunblock, hat and comfortable walking shoes. Cape Town has a winter rainfall (May-September), so bring a rain jacket.
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